It’s Hurricane Season…Be Ready for Severe Weather

Hurricane/flooding season runs from June 1 through November 30

Wednesday, June 01, 2016

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – June 1, 2016 – According to the National Weather Service, more than 522 people died and nearly 2,143 were injured throughout the U.S. as a result of severe weather in 2015. The most deadly hazard was flooding, claiming 176 lives, rip currents claimed 56 lives, thunderstorms and high wind weather events claimed 65 lives, followed by extreme cold with 53 and extreme heat, with 45. (Source: NWS/NOAA)

Now's the time to take steps to keep you and your family safe. Make a plan, get a kit and stay informed. Here are important tips to ensure your safety before, during and after severe weather:

Make a plan:

Have a family emergency plan. Talk to your children. Everyone should know what to do in case family members are not together when severe weather happens. Get a free emergency plan worksheet at www.ReadyVirginia.gov or from the Ready Virginia app.

Make sure you have a safe place to go when severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued. Safe areas include basements and interior rooms such as bathrooms or closets on the lowest level of a sturdy building. Stay away from windows. If outside, don't seek shelter under trees.

Turn Around Don't Drown - Do not drive or walk through floodwater. Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. If a road is flooded turn around and find another route — it is almost always more dangerous than it appears.

Know your evacuation route in case you are to advised to leave the area.

Follow the instructions of local and state officials.

Get a kit:

Keep emergency supplies on hand, including at least three days' non-perishable food and water, flashlights and batteries, first aid kit, and medicines. Make a customized individual kit for babies, family members with functional or special needs, seniors, pets, and one to keep in your vehicle.